Overview
- Reports published on Thursday say Xabi Alonso has identified Edmond Tapsoba as a top summer target and will push for defensive reinforcements at Chelsea.
- Tapsoba is a 6ft 4in, right-footed centre-back who thrived under Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen and is praised for his passing, aerial strength and calm on the ball.
- Leverkusen tied Tapsoba to a long-term deal reported to run until 2031 and include a roughly €95m release clause, a contract position that makes any transfer expensive and difficult.
- Chelsea’s defensive problems this season, including conceding about 50 league goals and finishing outside the top positions, are a key reason Alonso wants an immediate, experienced signing.
- If Chelsea pursue Tapsoba it would signal Alonso’s strong influence on recruitment and could reshape the club’s transfer approach, though Leverkusen’s reluctance to sell is a major practical barrier.